Description
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Blue Cheese
Ingredients
1 1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese
1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional for drizzling)
Directions
Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Sprouts: Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet.
Add the Bacon: Sprinkle the chopped bacon pieces over the Brussels sprouts.
Roast: Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway, until the sprouts are golden and caramelized and the bacon is crispy.
Finish & Serve: Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese on top and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 230 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly until every sprout is evenly coated. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded to promote caramelization. Evenly distribute the chopped bacon over the top. Roast for 20-25 minutes, but be sure to stir and flip everything at the 15-minute mark. The dish is ready when the sprouts are tender with deep golden-brown edges and the bacon is fully rendered and crisp.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile side dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. For a classic dinner, serve alongside a roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared pork chops. It makes an exceptional holiday side for Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas ham. To turn it into a hearty lunch, toss the warm sprouts and bacon with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette for a warm salad. You can also mix it into cooked pasta or grains like farro for a complete meal.
How-to Summary
Trim and halve sprouts, then toss with oil and seasonings. Spread on a parchment-lined sheet, top with chopped bacon, and roast at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until caramelized and crispy. Finish by topping with crumbled blue cheese and an optional balsamic glaze drizzle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prep the sprouts and bacon ahead, but for best texture, roast just before serving. The finished dish does not reheat well as the bacon and cheese can become soggy.
What can I use instead of blue cheese? If blue cheese is too strong, crumbled goat cheese, feta, or grated Parmesan are excellent, tangy substitutes.
How do I prevent soggy Brussels sprouts? Ensure your sprouts are completely dry after washing, don’t overcrowd the pan, and roast at a high temperature (425°F) to encourage browning.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts? It’s not recommended. Frozen sprouts release too much water during roasting, preventing proper caramelization and leading to a steamed, mushy texture.
Is the balsamic glaze necessary? While optional, the sweet, tangy glaze beautifully cuts through the richness of the bacon and blue cheese, highly recommended for flavor balance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: This steams the sprouts instead of roasting them. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Not Trimming Properly: Always trim the dry stem end and remove any loose outer leaves for even cooking.
- Skipping the Stir: Neglecting to stir halfway through roasting will result in uneven browning.
- Using Thin-Cut Bacon: Thick-cut bacon holds up better, providing meaty, crispy bits rather than burning.
- Adding Cheese Too Early: Sprinkle the blue cheese only after roasting; adding it before will cause it to melt into an unappealing mess.
Conclusion
This Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Blue Cheese recipe transforms a simple vegetable into a spectacular side dish. The combination of caramelized sprouts, salty bacon, and pungent cheese creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is sure to impress. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasion dinners. Master this recipe by following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing favorite ready in just over 30 minutes.